An academic in the School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, Dr Sanele Gumede, is the content contributor to the segment on the South African and African economy on Ukhozi FM’s Sithakela Isizwe talk show.
The daily talk show aims to educate, inform and entertain listeners by engaging in and discussing issues of social importance as well as confronting destructive stereotypes and patterns.
Gumede’s feature which airs on Tuesdays at 20h45 looks at the reasons for the country’s current economic situation, including issues such as the unstable fuel price, the impact of comments made by government leaders on the rand, share prices and their impact on the average South African and other topical issues.
‘The knowledge and techniques I acquired from my PhD have assisted me with practical knowledge when it comes to economic growth and development. Being part of this feature ensures that this knowledge not only benefits me but South African citizens as well,’ said Gumede.
‘Deliberating on economics in our (own) language will make it easy for citizens to participate in our economy. Listeners can post their comments on Facebook/Twitter and I respond to the questions they raise. This ensures that we cover issues that people want to discuss. As South Africans, we all have the right to know why the economy is the way it is and to keep abreast of economic developments which affect our livelihood,’ he said.
The segment’s co-producer, Ms Nomfundo Mkhize, said Gumede has made an invaluable contribution to the show and its listeners.
‘The segment follows our entrepreneurial Monday feature as the two complement each other for any South African who is looking to know more about the country’s landscape for their career or business growth. Sanele was an obvious choice because of his fluency in isiZulu and vast knowledge of economics. His special interest in trade economics was also a differentiator for us which sealed the deal. Africa’s economy is developing and trade is at the centre of that. Hopefully, our entrepreneurs will be able to interpret economics in order to better navigate the treacherous world of business,’ she added.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Itulemeng Masa
